As a travel enthusiast, forgetting to pack makeup remover is all too common. Washing my face repeatedly with hotel soap is a nightmare I never want to relive. To avoid this, I consulted some makeup artist and model friends to compile a list of effective makeup removal methods for those times when you’re without your usual remover. Whether you're forgetful or a DIY enthusiast, I hope these tips help!

1. Olive Oil

Think of olive oil as your versatile beauty savior. Marie Watkinson, founder of NYC’s Spa Chicks On The Go, swears by it. Just wet a cotton pad with water, add some olive oil, and swipe away your eye makeup. It’s gentle and won’t cause breakouts, plus it leaves your skin feeling soft and conditioned.

2. Coconut Oil

Rachel Lozina from Blue Water Spa recommends coconut oil for its excellent dirt and makeup dissolving properties. It’s especially great for dry skin, but remember to rinse thoroughly if you have oily or acne-prone skin.

3. Jojoba Oil

Jojoba oil is another fantastic option. According to Alexis Pfropper of asthetik skincare, it closely mimics the skin’s natural oils, making it suitable for all skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin. It effectively removes makeup without clogging pores.

4. Oil with a Pinch of Baking Soda For stubborn, silicone-based makeup, mix any oil (like jojoba, coconut, or olive) with a small pinch of baking soda. Elina Fedotova of Elina Organics advises against using this mix around the eyes, but it works wonders on the rest of your face. Cleanse and rinse thoroughly afterward.

5. Micellar Water If you have micellar water on hand, you’re in luck. This blend of oil and soft water is a powerful, effective makeup remover. It picks up residual makeup, oil, and dirt effortlessly, says Lozina.

6. Aloe Vera For a gentle and soothing option, turn to aloe vera. Ideal for sensitive skin, it’s great for removing light, non-waterproof makeup. Simply massage aloe vera gel onto your face with a cotton pad or your fingers, then rinse with water, advises Pfropper.

7. Witch Hazel Witch hazel is a fantastic astringent for those with oily skin. Lozina recommends following up with a hydrating serum and moisturizer if you have normal or dry skin.

8. Oat Flour, Water, and Honey For a gentle exfoliating scrub, mix oat flour with water and honey. Fedotova suggests applying this mixture as a mask for up to 10 minutes. As you rinse, massage your skin to let the oat particles exfoliate while honey soothes and decongests pores.

Conclusion

These DIY makeup removers are not only effective but also kind to your skin. Whether you prefer oils, natural ingredients, or a simple scrub, you’ll find a method that works for you. Embrace the simplicity and effectiveness of these homemade solutions and enjoy a fresh, clean face with ease.

For more beauty tips and DIY recipes, check out resources like Byrdie and Allure.